KUBOTA UK has expressed its delight after triumphing in the Alternative Power Innovation category at the PlantWorx 2025 Innovation Awards.
The company was recognised for its Electric Retrofit technology, which allows customers to move from diesel power to a full battery electric driveline across a growing range the manufacturer’s mini-excavators.
Currently available for its 1.8-tonne KX019-4e and 2.5-tonne U27-4e minis, Kubota has developed a modular retrofit battery pack that can be used in place of a standard diesel model’s engine. The battery pack and electric motor can be installed by the customer or dealer when a zero-emission machine is required. The machine can then be returned to diesel power for other types of work.
The Electric Retrofit kit includes the battery pack, battery management system (BMS), electric motor, human-machine interface (HMI), battery charger, cable harness, and adapter parts. Kubota explained that the electric motor provides the same power output as the conventional diesel engine, resulting in ‘no change in performance or productivity’ on site.
Noise levels are described as ‘considerably lower’ and there are zero exhaust emissions when in electric mode. The battery pack has been designed to work for at least three hours.
“We are delighted to have been recognised with this award for the Electric Retrofit option,” said Rob White, Kubota (UK) construction division manager. “We believe that the retrofit kit offers customers a cost-effective, environmentally-friendly solution that allows them to start their transition to electric power and to meet the needs of their customers with proven, existing machinery today. It offers a solution that bridges the gap to a high-cost, full battery electric model in the future.”
